Eating a Diet Rich in Fruits and Vegetables

Here's Why:

Produce has certainly earned its healthful reputation. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, phytochemicals, and fiber, while being low in calories and fat. All of these factors contribute to many health benefits, such as:

Lower blood cholesterol levels

Decreased risk of
atherosclerosis
(plaque build up in the arteries) and heart disease

Try to fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables. Visit the
ChooseMyPlate
website for more information.

Focus on color when eating fruits and vegetables. Dark green, red, and orange vegetables are especially packed with good-for-you nutrients.
Also, within your daily servings, try fruits and vegetables rich in
vitamin A
or beta-carotene and
vitamin C. Produce rich in vitamin A and beta-carotene (which is converted to vitamin A in the body) includes:

For dessert:

Smoothies with fruit, yogurt, juice, proteins, and/or vegetables are great option for a fast, nourishing breakfast, snack, or dessert. Consider investing in a blender that can crush ice and frozen fruit. You can use any ingredients you like for a healthy alternative to sweets.

No Cheating!

While it may be tempting to just pop a supplement instead of eating more produce, this is not the best way to go. The majority of the research has shown positive health effects from foods rich nutrients, not from isolated nutrients. Experts think it may be the package of nutrients in fruits and vegetables that delivers the biggest health benefits.
Additionally there are hundreds of phytochemicals in each bite of fruits and vegetables that are not available in pill form.

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

To send comments or feedback to our Editorial Team regarding the content please email us at healthlibrarysupport@ebsco.com. Our Health Library Support team will respond to your email request within 2 business days.

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